OTS 174: Unlocking Holistic Tiered Support with MTSS
- Jayson Davies
- 16 minutes ago
- 41 min read
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Welcome to the show notes for Episode 174 of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
In today’s episode, we’re talking all about MTSS—Multi-Tiered Systems of Support—and how occupational therapy fits into the bigger picture of supporting students in schools. Every school has its own challenges and strengths, and the way OT integrates into MTSS can look different depending on the setting.
Joining us is Dr. Moira Bushell, a school-based OT whose systems-level work is both innovative and impactful. Moira was recently named a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association and received the Recognition of Achievement Award at the 2025 Inspire conference. She brings deep insight into what it takes to implement collaborative, effective practices in schools—and how OTs can be a key part of that process.
Whether you’ve ever wondered how to provide support within MTSS without a formal evaluation or you’re trying to better understand the differences between Tiers 1, 2, and 3, this episode is full of thoughtful conversation and practical ideas. Listen to learn more about how to enhance your understanding of MTSS and how OTs can drive student success.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
-Learners will describe the core components of a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and the unique contributions of occupational therapy within this framework.
-Learners will differentiate between Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 supports and explain how OT strategies can be applied at each level.
-Learners will identify collaborative practices that enhance OT integration into MTSS and promote systems-level change in school settings.
Guest(s) Bio
Dr. Moira P. Bushell, OTD, MEd, OTR/L has been a school-based occupational therapist for over 12 years. Her extensive experience in program facilitation and passion for education make her a strong advocate for children. Dr. Bushell has profoundly influenced school-based OT practice and volunteer leadership.
She excels in systems change, advocacy, and leadership development, transforming AOTA’s volunteer nomination processes to align with strategic goals and foster inclusive governance. Her expertise includes creating inclusive learning environments and supporting students of all abilities.
She currently serves in multiple volunteer roles with the Illinois and American Occupational Therapy Associations. Her dedication to meaningful change continues to shape the profession and the communities she serves.
Quotes
“When you're doing MTSS correctly, you're looking at the whole child and a holistic perspective on everything that's impacting the student during their time in school and sometimes outside of school, and what factors are impacting them and their participation in the school environment.”
-Dr. Moira P. Bushell, OTD, MEd, OTR/L
“Behavior should be a neutral word, not a negative word. And it's taken this negative connotation that behavior is bad, but behavior is communication.”
-Dr. Moira P. Bushell, OTD, MEd, OTR/L
“But we need to know that curriculum. That's the easiest way to start understanding how to support the kids, is to understand the curriculum.”
-Jayson Davies, M.A., OTR/L
Resources
👉UDL
Episode Transcript
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